ADOG - Dog Dental Care

Your Pet Needs Dental Care Too!

Written by Dr. Sarah Bashaw, DVM, Hillside Animal Hospital

One of the most frequently overlooked but most commonly diagnosed conditions in our companion animals is dental disease. Dogs and cats develop plaque, tartar and gingivitis in a similar manner as humans. We take great care in preventing tooth disease and bad breath in our own mouths, but often fail to prevent this from developing in our pets. This article will explain the process of dental disease in dogs and cats, and steps you can take to maintain a healthy mouth and prevent severe problems.

Permanent teeth erupt in dogs and cats by 6 months of age. Chewing and tongue action along the teeth initially help keep the teeth clean, but over time bacteria, saliva and food debris accumulate to form plaque. As plaque binds with minerals in saliva, tartar is formed. Tartar is very hard, mineralized material that binds to the tooth surface. As tartar and plaque work under the gum line and trap bacteria, the gum disease gingivitis begins. Signs of gingivitis include redness and swelling of the gum line, pus under the gum, gum loss and halitosis (bad breath). Any of these signs are indications of dental disease.

BEFORE

Tooth brushing on a daily basis starting at a young age can help prevent plaque and tartar buildup, subsequently slowing the progression of gingivitis. Tooth brushing should begin before the permanent teeth have erupted, so your pet becomes used to handling and the feel of a brush. Only veterinary approved toothpastes should be used, as human products can be harmful to pet’s systems if swallowed.

AFTER

Over time, plaque and tartar eventually do build up, especially if we haven’t been brushing regularly. The only way to treat the resultant dental disease is through professional oral hygiene procedures performed by your veterinarian. Your pet will receive a thorough physical examination and blood tests to check their overall health. A full anesthesia is performed with complete monitoring so that all areas of the teeth can be fully examined, cleaned and polished. Anesthesia is required to safely clean the teeth on all surfaces and under the gum line. Radiographs (x-rays) of the teeth may be taken to evaluate for any problems under the gum or within the tooth. If problem areas are detected, specific treatment is performed to help heal that area and prevent further progression of the problem.

Animals who do not receive proper dental care, both at home and at the veterinary clinic, are very likely to develop periodontal disease. This condition occurs when the bacteria present in gingivitis progress further under the gum and damage the bone around the tooth, or the tooth and root themselves. If damage becomes too severe the tooth may need extraction. Severe problems such as cavities or abscesses can be extremely painful, even if you pet doesn’t give any sign of pain. If you have ever had a toothache, you know how bad it hurts, yet you still try to eat and go on with your daily activities. Animals do the same thing. If you suspect your pet has a more severe problem, often noted by observing loose or discolored teeth, severe odor, or pus or blood at the gum line, then your pet needs to be seen by your veterinarian immediately.

Proper care of our pet’s teeth can help them live longer healthier lives. Routine oral hygiene care by you and your veterinarian can prevent tooth decay and loss, as well as preventing spread of disease from the mouth through the bloodstream. It is important to schedule regular check ups and cleanings and discuss home care with your veterinarian.

This article cannot be re-issued or reproduced without the express permission of ADOG or Hillside Animal Hospital.

Brush Up on Doggie Dental Care

You may want to brush up on a few pet care facts to make sure your dog’s teeth and gums stay healthy.

According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, 80 percent of pets over the age of 3 are diagnosed with an oral disease each year.

Letting your pet’s teeth reach an unhealthy state can lead to tooth loss, potential spread of infection to other vital body organs and bad breath.

To prevent such problems, take your pet to the veterinarian at least once a year for a dental checkup. If plaque and tartar buildup is evident, a professional cleaning may be recommended.

Here are some expert tips to help keep your dog’s teeth and gums healthy:

Brush your pet’s teeth regularly; once a day is recommended. Using both a toothbrush and toothpaste developed for pets is the best way to remove and prevent plaque buildup in between veterinary visits.
Provide hard food, such as edible bones and crunchy snacks, to exercise the teeth. Dogs on such a diet may be less prone to having dental problems.
Rawhide dog treats have been used for many years to satisfy dog’s natural desire to chew. The abrasive action of chewing rawhide helps reduce plaque and gingivitis in dogs, up to 25 percent according to some studies.
Fun chew toys, especially with raised tips, can massage and strengthen gums and help decrease plaque buildup. For puppies left alone, chew toys can relieve boredom and keep them from biting other items. They also offer an alternative to hard objects that might lead to tooth fractures.
If your dog has bad breath, don’t fret. There are breath strips currently on the market, similar to those sold for human use. Also, check your pet for bleeding or irritated gums, tartar buildup or oral pain. Seek veterinary assistance for any chronic problems.

By combining regular veterinary checkups with a consistent home program, concerned and loving owners can help their dogs have healthy teeth and gums for a long time.

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Printed with permission from Thousand Oaks Acorn

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